Treasure can come out of everyday pocket: Coins that sell for lakhs
Collecting coins has been a hobby rich in history, art and adventure. A coin that may look ordinary to us at times – such as a plain paisa or a five paisa coin – can prove to be worth thousands or lakhs of rupees. Mistakenly produced coins in the past or coins printed in small quantities have become extremely valuable today.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or just idly browsing the coins in your pocket, when you get your hands on a rare and valuable coin, the experience is actually like discovering a treasure. Here we are going to inform you about 5 such rare coins, which might even be present with you – and if they are, then they can turn you into a millionaire!
1. 1950 Jefferson nickel – A secret treasure in the pocket
1950 Jefferson nickel coin, particularly the one produced by Denver (D) Mint, is highly valuable. Extremely few such coins were produced this year. The coin itself may appear ordinary at the beginning glance, but it’s far special because of its rarity among collectors.
If this coin is in an excellent circumstance, particularly uncirculated, then its value may be over ₹ 4,000. This coin is a pleasant desire for novices who wish to start accumulating coins.
2. Copper Penny of 1943 – Wartime Gaffe Becomes Priceless Legacy
In 1943, there was a war in America, and the army required copper. So all the coins for that year were produced out of steel. But due to an error some coins were cast in old copper. This error is turning these coins worth lakhs now.
If your 1943 coin is non-magnetic and slightly red-brown in color, then it could be copper. These coins have been sold for over ₹ 80 lakhs now! Keep in mind, do get it checked and certified by an expert.
3. 1916-D Mercury Dime – 10 paise coin, worth lakhs
A new 10 paise coin Mercury Dime was introduced in 1916. Only 2.64 lakh coins were made from the Denver Mint (1916-D) – i.e., a very small quantity. Such coins are now extremely hard to find and if available in good condition, then it can earn over ₹ 1 crore.
Its rarity, history and beauty render it one of the most valuable American coins worldwide.
4. 1969-S Lincoln Penny – Double Printed Coin
1969-S Lincoln Cent is a special coin in which an error occurred during the print. In this, words such as “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” are observed printed twice – referred to as Doubled Die.
The quantity of such coins is hardly any – a couple of hundred. And their value can exceed ₹30 lakhs. If you possess a 1969 coin with an ‘S’ inscribed on it, then inspect it closely – it could be that rare coin.
5. 1937-D Three Legged Buffalo Nickel – One leg missing!
The Buffalo Nickel series is already well known, but this 1937-D coin where one leg of the buffalo is missing stands apart from all others. This error was the result of minting while polishing. One leg of the buffalo cannot be seen, and that is what makes it extremely unique.
If this coin is in good shape, then it can be sold very easily at ₹30–35 lakhs. It is a star piece among coin collectors.
Why are these coins so valuable?
- Rarity: If the quantity of a coin is very few, then its demand and price both rise.
- History: Coins that were made during wars or significant historical times are particularly valuable.
- Mint errors: Any error that’s noticeable on a coin – double-printed pieces or a design not completed – will make it more valuable.
- Condition: The newer and cleaner the coin appears, the higher its value, particularly if it’s graded.
How to know if you have a valuable coin?
- Examine carefully: Are words double-printed? Is a leg missing? Is the design unfinished?
- Examine the mint mark: D stands for Denver and S stands for San Francisco – coins struck in these mints are usually scarce.
- Invest in the proper gear: Examine small details using a magnifying glass.
- Magnet test and weight: Particularly for 1943 copper pennies, which aren’t made of steel.
- Get it verified: Have the coin graded by an accredited company such as PCGS or NGC.
A few final words
It sounds crazy, however there had been numerous occasions when people have determined coins in their pockets or forgotten closets that offered for millions. Coins including a 1950 nickel, a copper penny from 1943, or a 1916-D Mercury dime may be found even these days.
The next time you sort through your old coins, take a good look. You might have a treasure that will make you a millionaire!
FAQs
1. Why are some old coins worth lakhs or crores today?
Due to rarity, historical context, mint errors, and condition, certain old coins gain massive value, becoming highly desirable among collectors and investors worldwide.
2. What is special about the 1950 Jefferson nickel?
The 1950 Jefferson nickel from the Denver Mint had limited production. In uncirculated condition, it’s worth over ₹4,000 and is a great coin for beginner collectors.
3. Why is the 1943 copper penny so valuable?
In 1943, pennies were supposed to be steel, but some copper ones were mistakenly minted. These rare errors are now valued over ₹80 lakhs due to extreme scarcity.
